In recent years, Lapland has become an increasingly popular destination for international travellers. During the winter months, visitors from around the world come to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, explore untouched Arctic landscapes, and meet Santa Claus. Lapland truly is a winter wonderland, offering a wide range of activities for all ages. In this guide, I’ll show you why should visit Lapland and provide all the essential information you need to plan your perfect winter getaway.
What is Lapland?
Let’s begin by clarifying what Lapland actually is. While it’s often associated with the northernmost region of Finland, Lapland spans a vast area that includes northern parts of Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia. Most of Lapland lies within the Arctic Circle. This is a line of latitude that marks the southern boundary where, during the summer, the sun remains above the horizon for at least 24 hours. This unique geography means that you can experience both the Polar Night and the Midnight Sun. However, in southern parts of Lapland, where most tourists visit, the Polar Night can be as short as one day.
When to Visit Lapland: The Best Times
While Lapland can be enjoyed year-round, it is particularly popular during the winter months. The region offers a perfect winter getaway with guaranteed snow, a wealth of winter activities, and the mesmerising Northern Lights. Due to its northern location, Lapland’s winter season is long, spanning from October to April. However, to experience the best winter conditions, the ideal time to visit is from December to March. Early in the winter, snow is not always guaranteed, and by April, rising temperatures mean snow starts to melt, which which can get in the way of many winter adventurous.
December
December is a peak month for visitors to Lapland, especially those looking to experience the magic of Christmas and meet Santa Claus. The allure of this winter wonderland during the holiday season is undeniable. However, this is also when prices are at their highest and major attractions, including Santa’s Village, are crowded with tourists. For these reasons, I would recommend avoiding December unless you are traveling with children and your main reason for travelling to Lapland is to meet Santa.
January – February
After the Christmas and New Year’s rush, the crowds in Lapland thin out, allowing for a more intimate and authentic experience. January and February are the coldest months, with average daytime temperatures around -8°C and nighttime lows typically dropping to -17°C. However, the days start to lengthen, offering an average of 6 hours of daylight by February. This period provides a good balance of winter conditions and more reasonable prices, allowing you to enjoy the many activities Lapland has to offer with fewer tourists.
March
I believe March is the best time to visit Lapland. While many European countries transition to spring, Lapland still has its peak snow cover and below freezing temperatures. Days lengthen quickly, offering nearly equal daylight and darkness, ideal for exploring the Arctic landscape. Temperatures are milder, making it more comfortable for those who aren’t fond of extreme cold.
Top Destinations in Lapland
Lapland’s expansive region across multiple countries makes choosing a destination challenging. While you’ll find similar activities throughout, landscapes and cultures differ.
Finland
Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is a great base for exploring the Finnish Lapland. You can fly there directly or with a change over in Helsinki. In Rovaniemi you can find Santa Clause Village, where you can cross the Arctic Circle. You’ll also find almost all winter adventurous offered there. There’s plenty of accommodation as well as restaurant and bar options. The main downside of Rovaniemi in my opinion is that it doesn’t have a lot of charm. It’s a small city, not a cute village. It’s a very practical destination but you won’t be in the middle of nature.
Levi
Levi is the second largest ski resort in Finland. It is located around 2 hour drive north from Rovaniemi. It’s a great choice for winter sport enthusiast. Here you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, winter fat tyre biking, snowshoeing without leaving the town. It’s a charming village with great facilities making it a great choice to enjoy the outdoors at ease. To dive deeper into everything Levi has to offer, don’t miss my full post on Levi Ski Resort.
Saariselkai
Saariselka is Finland’s northernmost ski resort. It’s remote location makes it a little harder to reach but once you get there all key facilities are close to each other. Saariselkä is an ideal destination for those looking for an authentic and natural experience in Lapland. A good local infrastructure and a nice selection of hotels provides a comfortable base to explore Lapland.
Norway
Narvik
Narvik, located near the stunning Lofoten Islands, is a city where history and adventure meet. Famous for its role in the Second World War, it now draws visitors for incredible winter experiences. The recently upgraded Narvikfjellet Resort, set to host the 2029 Alpine World Championships, offers skiing with breathtaking fjord views and accommodation right on the slopes, along with cross-country trails connected directly to the resort. Just a short trip away are the Swedish resorts of Riksgränsen, Björkliden, and Abisko, making it easy to combine Norwegian and Swedish Lapland into one trip.
Tromsø
Tromsø, the largest city in Northern Norway, sits even further north and is renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant activities. Serving as the main departure port for North Pole expeditions, Tromsø is a cultural and historical hub. Popular with tourists, the city offers a wide range of activities year-round. However, for skiing, Tromsø is not the best choice, as the nearby ski resort is small compared with other Arctic destinations.
Sweden
Abisko
Abisko, nestled by the shores of a vast lake, is a gateway to Abisko National Park and a haven for nature lovers. The surrounding mountains are gentler than those in Norway, making it ideal for beginner ski-touring and off-piste skiing. Less crowded than other areas of Lapland, Abisko offers a more tranquil winter experience and excellent opportunities for snowmobiling. Nearby are the ski resorts of Riksgränsen and Björkliden, which, while older and mainly equipped with drag lifts, provide additional skiing options.
Kiruna
Kiruna, the northernmost town in Sweden, is surrounded by diverse landscapes, including dense forests, vast marshes, lakes, rivers, and mountains. It is more easily reached than Abisko, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. Nearby is the renowned Jukkasjärvi Icehotel, rebuilt eachk year from ice blocks.
Which Lapland destination should you choose?
✈️ Easiest destinations to reach
- Rovaniemi – affordable direct flights from many European cities; a short bus or taxi ride from the airport
- Tromsø – direct flights from many European cities; a short bus or taxi ride from the airport
- Levi – 2-hour bus ride from Rovaniemi; multiple buses daily
🎿 Best destinations for skiing
- Levi – voted Finland’s best ski resort multiple times; ~40 km of slopes with modern chair lifts and a cable car
- Narvik – large altitude difference (~900 m); modern cable and chair lift to the top
- Abisko – a short drive to Riksgränsen (20+ km of pistes) and Björkliden (15 km), though lifts are older
🚌 Best destinations without needing a car
- Rovaniemi – airport nearby, local buses within the city, many tours with hotel pick-up
- Tromsø – airport nearby, good local public transport, many tours with hotel pick-up
- Levi – compact walkable village; most activities accessible on foot
🌲 Close to Nature
- Abisko – next to a large lake, surrounded by mountains; ideal for hiking, Northern Lights, and Abisko National Park adventures
- Levi – village in the heart of Finnish Lapland; easy access to forests, cross-country skiing trails, and winter outdoor activities
- Saariselkä – Finland’s northernmost ski resort; remote and peaceful, surrounded by vast wilderness, perfect for a quiet nature-focused Lapland experience
🌟 Unique Experiences
- Rovaniemi – visit Santa Claus Village and cross the Arctic Circle
- Kiruna – visit the iconic Jukkasjärvi Icehotel
- Abisko – world famous for Northern Lights viewing
- Narvik – ski with fjord views; scenic cable car rides
Must-Try Attractions for Your Lapland Adventure
When visiting Lapland, you’ll find a wealth of winter attractions that ensure you won’t run out of things to do. Here are some of my top recommendations:
Husky safari
One of the most iconic experiences in Lapland is a husky sled ride. You’ll be pulled through snowy landscapes by a team of enthusiastic huskies—it’s as magical as it sounds. Usually, you can also visit the kennel, learn about its operations, and pet the dogs. For an ethical experience, choose a provider that treats the animals well. Husky safaris vary in length; a short 1-2 km ride can give you a taste of the experience if you’re on a budget, but a longer 10-20 km tour allows to enjoy the ride for longer. Although the cost can be high, reflecting the expense of feeding and training the dogs year-round, a husky safari is an unforgettable and essential part of any Lapland visit.
Aurora hunting
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket list experience for many travellers visiting Lapland. To maximize your chances, you’ll need clear skies, a favourable aurora forecast, and dark nights with minimal light pollution. While you can’t control the weather, avoiding light pollution improves your odds. Many tours offer aurora hunting trips, which can be costly but improve your chances. Keep in mind that seeing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, so it’s best to check aurora forecasts before booking a tour. Alternatively, you can seek out known aurora spots on your own. It’s more budget-friendly and even if you miss the lights, the Arctic landscape at night remains enchanting.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing involves traveling across snow-covered terrain with skis and poles, without using ski lifts. Popular in Scandinavia, Lapland offers excellent conditions for this sport with its ample snow cover and well-maintained tracks. While it might seem straightforward, it’s a good idea to start with a lesson or guided tour. A short lesson can teach you the basics, allowing you to later explore Lapland’s forests independently. On the trails, you’ll usually encounter locals and find small cafes along popular routes where you can enjoy a drink and local dishes.
Snow show hiking
Snowshoe hiking is another fantastic winter activity to try in Lapland. Snowshoes are designed for walking over snow. Their large surface area distributes your weight, allowing you to walk on top of the snow without sinking. Walking on snow shoes is very easy, so you won’t need a guide. It might feel a bit awkward at first, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it. You can rent snow shoes easily in most rental shops. If you want to venture out on your own I’d recommend sticking to marked trails to avoid getting lost. If you feel more comfortable you can opt for a guided tour.
Snowmobile safari
A snowmobile safari is the fastest, loudest, and most adrenaline-pumping way to explore Lapland’s nature. It’s an exhilarating adventure, speeding through trails and navigating curves. Snowmobiles can accommodate up to two people, so if you’re not confident driving alone, you can share a snowmobile with someone else, which can also save you money since prices are often per snowmobile, even on guided tours.
Staying in a glass igloo
Glass-roofed igloos offer a unique chance to sleep beneath the stars and possibly witness the Northern Lights, all while staying warm and cosy indoors. This popular Lapland accommodation brings you closer to nature, often located far from towns to avoid light pollution. While the Aurora isn’t guaranteed, many hotels offer wake-up calls if the lights appear, increasing your chances of catching them. The biggest drawback is the cost, as even a one-night stay can be quite expensive. However, if you rent a car, you can find more affordable options located further from the main tourist areas.
Planning Your Perfect Trip to Lapland
Visiting Lapland does not mean you have to pay for an expensive package holiday. With a bit of planning, you can organize your own trip, save money, and enjoy more flexibility.
If winter driving is not for you, stick to destinations that are easily reached by public transport, such as Rovaniemi, Tromsø, Levi, or Saariselkä. This makes travel simpler and keeps costs low. If you can drive, you can reach more remote areas. Staying slightly outside main towns or attractions can also help reduce accommodation costs.
For a first trip, Finland is ideal because it is easy to reach from major European cities. Rovaniemi is perfect for families with Santa Claus Village, while Levi is a great choice for those who want an active, outdoor-focused holiday.
For a second trip, consider Narvik and Abisko to experience two countries in one itinerary with breathtaking landscapes and winter adventures.
Plan your key attractions ahead and book popular tours such as husky safaris or Northern Lights excursions in advance. Equipment rentals for skis, snowshoes, or winter gear are usually available on the spot, giving you flexibility.
With some preparation, you can enjoy Lapland on your own terms, focus on the experiences that matter most, and create a trip tailored to your pace.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this post informative and feel inspired to visit Lapland yourself. It’s a truly breathtaking destination with unforgettable experiences, from the magic of the Northern Lights to thrilling winter activities. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lapland offers something for everyone. Start planning your trip, and get ready for a winter escape like no other!